No excuses from Weir

David Weir offered no excuses following United's exit from the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at the hands of Hartlepool United on Tuesday night.

James Poole's first-half strike settled the second round tie at Bramall Lane, much to the annoyance of the Blades manager, who says he can take nothing from the game.

He said: "I have expressed my disappointment to the players. There were no positives to take from that performance, the players are aware of that.

"The result was hugely disappointing, that goes without saying. We didn't do anything well enough, especially going forward, we didn't create chances.

"The team is obviously lacking confidence, that is apparent to everyone. Confidence is an issue but you have to generate your own confidence, nobody will give it you on plate."

The Gaffer insists the fight goes: "I am not going to resign and I don't fear what might happen in the future, because I remain focused on coming to work and doing my job in a way I believe is correct.

"I don't seek assurances because I am here to do my job and as manager it is my task to get this team winning football matches, that hasn't changed since day one.

"If you fear anything in football you will fail, so I now must focus on Sunday's game at Coventry because ultimately in time I will be judged on results, I am not naïve enough to think otherwise."